by Allison Prater |
In recent years, Middle Eastern dance, commonly known as “belly dance” has been one of the fastest growing fitness trends in the US, and with good reason. There are a host of benefits that can be attained through the practice of belly dance for both women and men of all ages. Belly dance is helpful for improving balance and coordination through the use of repetitive movements, or drills. These drills will often isolate one part of the body and take it through specific movements, such as lifts, drops, circles, figure 8′s and shimmies. These movements gently move a joint, such as the hip, through its full range of motion. When a joint is rotated, synovial fluid is stimulated, which lubricates it. This helps keep the joint healthy and protects it from injury.
The repetition in drilling is important for many reasons. When a movement is repeated constantly, there is a neuromuscular connection made, and in time the movement becomes instinctual. Often the muscles that are being utilized are muscles that are taken for granted during our daily routine. When the muscles are activated through repetitive motion, they are then able to help support proper alignment and posture, without our needing to think about it consciously. Repetitive pelvic tucks forward, for example, strengthen the lower abdomen and help to correct low back issues, such as sway back. These movements also strengthen the pelvic floor in general. Chest lifts help to strengthen the shoulders and open the chest, very beneficial to those who spend the day hunched over a computer.
Belly dance works with the natural structure of the body. The basic stance in belly dance is very similar to Mountain Pose in Yoga, the major difference is that the knees are much softer, to allow for the body to move smoothly. The feet are turned forward under the hips, and the joints are stacked, with great care being given to spinal alignment. The spinal column contains more bones and ligaments then any other part of the body. Belly dance movements such as undulations, really focus on careful articulation of the spine. Belly dance also strengthens many deep internal muscles in both the front and back of the body that can contribute to life-long spinal strength and flexibility.
Because belly dance is done from a standing position it is considered a weight bearing exercise. This is especially important for women and can increase bone density and possibly prevent Osteoporosis. The spiraling, circular, and figure 8 motions in belly dance also improve circulation to all the organs in the pelvis and abdomen. Increasing and circulating blood flow to the reproductive organs can be helpful to some women who experience painful menstrual cramping and other difficulties. Midwives Ina May Gaskin, and Aviva Jill Romm both recommend belly dance as an excellent form of pre, pari, and post-natal fitness. “Belly Dancing, originally developed as a form of pelvic toning for pregnant women, is an excellent way to exercise prenatally,” says Romm in The Natural Pregnancy Book.
Belly dance is also a very healing and joyful way to lose weight. The increased circulation in the abdomen also helps to improve digestion. Most importantly, belly dance celebrates each individual’s body in whatever state it currently is in. Many of the movements embody a sense of grace, but also one of strength and confidence. The dancer moves with an open heart, the head held high. As one begins to celebrate and love one’s body, the body immediately begins to reflect the love and beauty expressed in the dance. It is a great way to reduce stress, and make wonderful new friends along the way.
Belly dance classes also accommodate dancers of all levels and abilities. Just like a yoga class, there are beginner, intermediate and advanced forms of many movements. The dance student has a lot of room to focus internally and discover new muscles, movements and possibilities within ones own body. Belly dance is also an excellent way to cross train and complement many other forms of dance.
Please consult a care provider you trust if you are pregnant, recovering from injury or taking medication before starting your belly dance practice.
References:
1. www.worldbellydance.com
2. Gaskin, Ina May, “Ina May’s Guide to Child Birth”, Bantham Books, 2003
3. Romm, Aviva Jill, pg. 94, Celestial Arts, 2003
4. www.atlantabellydance.com
For more information visit the The Yogic Lounge at www.theyogiclounge.com
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